Cape Verde horror as over 100 Brits struck down with diarrhoea bug as warning issued
The UK Health Security Agency has issued a travel warning after 112 Brits caught shigella and salmonella infections in Cape Verde, urging holidaymakers to take precautions ahead of half-term
People have been warned about travelling to Cape Verde(Image: Getty Images)
Holidaymakers have been issued a stark warning about trips to Cape Verde following a surge in cases where over 100 Britons contracted a nasty stomach bug.
UK authorities have warned tourists considering the West African island chain for February half-term breaks after dozens of previous visitors were struck down with shigella and salmonella – both nasty infections picked up from contaminated food and drink.
A probe by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) revealed 158 confirmed cases of Shigella since October 1 last year.
The investigation also discovered 112 of those affected had jetted off to Cape Verde, with most visiting Santa Maria and Boa Vista – though travel details for other cases remain unclear.
Officials have also spotted a rise in salmonella cases linked to Cape Verde holidays, reports the Mirror.
Since October 1, a total of 43 salmonella cases from three distinct clusters, identified through whole genome sequencing, have been traced back to Cape Verde trips.
Six British tourists have also died during or shortly after their trips to the destination since 2023 – four of whom died within the last three months.
Travellers are being urged to check the Travel Health Pro website, backed by UKHSA, which offers vital guidance for planning safe winter sun getaways.
Travel Health Pro has recently refreshed its Cape Verde advice, including essential steps to guard against stomach infections. This follows complaints from British holidaymakers about stomach upsets after visiting the islands.
Dr Gauri Godbole, Deputy Director for Gastrointestinal Infections, Food Safety and One Health at UKHSA, explained: “February is a popular time for winter sun holidays and we want to help families make the most of their breaks by staying healthy. Taking a few simple precautions against traveller’s diarrhoea and food poisoning can make all the difference.
“The best way to avoid gastrointestinal infections, including Shigella and Salmonella, or passing them to others, is simply by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water or alcohol gel – particularly after using the toilet, changing nappies, and before eating or preparing food.
“Most episodes of traveller’s diarrhoea are short-lived, lasting for a few days. During an episode of diarrhoea and vomiting, it is important to prevent dehydration particularly for young children, pregnant women, elderly people, and those with pre-existing illnesses as they can develop complications.
“Continue to hydrate yourself with plenty of fluids and consider purchasing sachets of oral rehydration salt before travelling. If symptoms worsen or you have underlying medical conditions, please seek advice from your GP or pharmacy.”
How can I reduce infection risk?
Travellers venturing to areas where stomach bugs pose a risk are advised to follow these guidelines:.
Opt for meals that are freshly made, thoroughly cooked and served steaming hot.
In locations lacking dependable clean water sources, consume only bottled or boiled water, including whilst cleaning your teeth, and steer clear of ice cubes in beverages.
Only consume fruit that you’ve peeled yourself and avoid leafy greens that might not have been rinsed in safe water.
Those with compromised immune systems, such as individuals taking steroids and other immunosuppressive medications, should consider consulting a medical professional about ‘standby’ antibiotic treatment before travelling.
